Honey the Dog

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When you get a dog, they become such a huge part of your life. If you’re anything like me, you love seeing your dog have fun new experiences. Practically, you also can’t leave them home alone too long. This left me wondering every weekend, what can I get up to today with my dog?

Besides going on your local walks, there are plenty of dog friendly days out available to make you look forward to getting out and about every weekend! 

Whether you’re looking for scenic walks, pet-friendly attractions, or dog-welcoming cafés, this guide will help you discover the best outings for you and your pup, avoiding unfriendly dog policies. I love to take my dog Honey with me wherever I go, so on all our holidays and mini breaks I’m using these tips to plan everything we can get up to!

Why Choose Dog Friendly Days Out?

Dogs are more than just pets; they are family members. Including them in your adventures strengthens your bond and enhances their well-being. Here are some key benefits of dog friendly days out:

• Exercise and Stimulation: Dogs thrive on physical activity and mental stimulation. Exploring new environments keeps them engaged and happy. A well stimulated dog can result in a much more calm, relaxed dog at home – rather than one that’s bouncing off the walls 24/7!
• Socialisation: Visiting dog-friendly places allows your pup to interact with other dogs and people, improving their social skills. When I got my puppy in 2022, socialisation was my top priority to ensure she could come along with me to pubs, cafes and restaurants. Now she’s 3 and I’m confident she will sit and relax wherever we go. Check out my 7 top tips for visiting dog friendly cafes here.
• Reduced Separation Anxiety: Bringing your dog along means less time spent alone, reducing their anxiety and behavioural issues. Some dogs can get nervous when spending long periods at home alone. This can lead to low moods and destructive behaviour. Your dog loves you and wants to spend as much time with you as possible! 
• Shared Experiences: Making memories with your furry companion strengthens your bond and provides endless joy. I get so much pleasure from seeing my dog have a great time – and posting on instagram to remember our adventures! I wrote a blog post about all the reasons I love having a dog in my 20’s.

How to Research Dog Friendly Days Out

Finding the perfect dog friendly days out require some research to ensure both you and your pup have a great time. Here’s how you can do it effectively:

1. Use Online Resources and Directories

Several websites and directories list dog friendly attractions, parks, and businesses. Some top options include:

• BringFido (www.bringfido.com): A global directory of dog friendly locations, including restaurants, hotels, and attractions.
• Dog-Friendly Britain (http://www.dogfriendlybritain.co.uk): A UK-based resource featuring pet-friendly destinations and tips.
• Local Tourism Websites: Many towns and cities have official tourism sites that highlight dog-friendly activities.
• Google Maps & Reviews: Searching for “dog friendly” followed by the activity type (e.g., “dog friendly beaches near me”) can yield useful results.

2. Read Online Reviews and Forums

Checking reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Facebook can help you understand real experiences from fellow dog owners. You can filter reviews for keywords that are important to you. Look out for comments about:

• Dog policies and any restrictions – for example many beaches only along dogs during off-season, particularly in busy tourist areas like parts of Cornwall.
• Quality of facilities (e.g., water bowls, waste bins, shaded areas)
• The friendliness of staff and visitors towards dogs

Forums such as Reddit and local Facebook groups can also be goldmines for insider tips on the best spots. Don’t be afraid just to create a post asking other people for advice! Find your local Facebook group and create a post asking for local dog friendly recommendations, or ask questions about specific places you have in mind. 

3. Follow Dog Friendly Influencers and Bloggers

Social media influencers and bloggers who focus on pet-friendly travel often share valuable recommendations. Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are great platforms to explore. Some well-known dog travel influencers provide first-hand reviews and detailed insights into dog friendly spots worldwide. Obviously this makes the most sense if they live fairly local to you! 

My favourite UK based influencer posting about dog friendly activities is Emily Gill from Great British Dog Walks. Emily travels all over the UK with her dog, recommending places to stay and things to do on her instagram and Tiktok. I’ve also posted a bunch of hotel reviews from places I’ve stayed with my dog which you can check out here.

4. Check Official Pet Policies

Before heading out, visit the official website of the attraction or business. Look for pet policies regarding:

• Lead requirements
• Breed restrictions
• Access to indoor areas
• Any extra fees or rules

If the information isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to call or email the venue. I’ve often found that venues that are happy to welcome dogs will make it clear and easy,  but venues which might only ‘tolerate’ dogs (or don’t allow them at all) won’t have dog related information clearly signposted. This isn’t a hard and fast rule though, just from personal experience.  All of the dog friendly hotels I’ve stayed at have had a page on their website explaining the dog policies, and restaurants might advertise a dog friendly menu for example. 

Best Types of Dog Friendly Days Out

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to choose the best outing for you and your dog. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Scenic Walks and Nature Trails

Walking is one of the best activities you can enjoy with your dog. My favourite way to find great countryside walks is using the All Trails Website or App (http://Alltrails.com). Users can post their favourite routes, leave reviews and images so you know what to expect on your adventure. For example, if there are stiles that need climbing, or if there are great off lead areas with no livestock. You can consider looking at:

• Parks and Forests: Many parks have designated dog friendly trails where your pup can roam (on or off-leash, depending on the rules).
• Coastal Paths and Beaches: Some beaches welcome dogs year-round, while others have seasonal restrictions.
• Countryside Walks: We’re so lucky in the UK to have public footpaths across most of our countryside and farmland.  
• National Trust Properties: Many National Trust properties are a fantastic option for a dog friendly day out. The vast majority will not allow dogs inside any historic buildings, but usually the grounds, cafes and shops are dog friendly. For example the famous Chatsworth House in the Peak District has extensive beautifully landscaped grounds you can explore with your pup!

Pro Tip: Always carry water, poop bags, and a leash, even if the location allows off-leash walking.

2. Dog Friendly Cafés and Restaurants

Many eateries now welcome dogs, offering water bowls, treats, and even special dog menus. Some things to check:

• Whether dogs are allowed inside or only in outdoor seating areas.
• If they provide shaded spots in warm weather.
• Reviews on how accommodating they are to pets.

3. Pet-Friendly Attractions

Some attractions have embraced dog friendly policies, including:

• Historic Sites: Many castles and gardens permit dogs on leads. This includes many National Trust properties, as mentioned earlier.
• Boat Tours: Many boat trips allow dogs on leads. I recently went for a fantastic boat tour on Lake Windermere in the Lake District with my dog. 
• Train Rides: There are lots of places where taking a historic steam train ride is a great family friendly attraction. Many of these have a dog friendly carriage, so do check it out if you consider booking. 
• Outdoor Museums and Farms: Check for interactive experiences where dogs are welcome. For example, you can now take dogs into the Cotswold Wildlife Park!

4. Dog Parks and Activity Centres

For an outing tailored to your dog’s enjoyment, visit:

• Dog Parks: Secure areas where dogs can run freely and socialise.
• Agility Courses: Some parks feature agility training equipment for an active challenge.
• Pet Spas and Resorts: Ideal for a day of pampering with dog-friendly pools and grooming services.

5. Staycations and Road Trips

If you want a longer adventure, consider:

• Dog Friendly Hotels and B&Bs: Many accommodations cater specifically to pet owners. Staying at dog friendly hotels is one of my favourite things to do! Here’s my top dog friendly hotels I’ve stayed at with my dog. All these hotels had fantastic dog friendly facilities and activities nearby.
• Camping Trips: Campgrounds with pet-friendly policies allow for a fun outdoor getaway.
• Dog-Friendly City Breaks: Explore pet-welcoming urban areas with parks, cafés, and attractions. Some cities are more dog friendly than others, so make sure you do some research first. The pictures below are from a recent visit we took to Inverness, there were plenty of local dog friendly attractions. You can check out everything we did here.

Tips for a Successful Dog-Friendly Outing

• Plan Ahead: Ensure the destination has everything your dog needs, from shade to pet-friendly amenities. 
• Pack Essentials: Bring water, a collapsible bowl, treats, waste bags, a lead, and a towel. If you’re going to be out for a long time, make sure to pack your dog’s dinner too.
• Follow Etiquette: Keep your dog under control, clean up after them, and respect other visitors. At crazy as it might seem, not everyone likes dogs. Some people are even scared of them. It’s vitally important to be respectful of this and make sure your dog is not causing a nuisance. If not, some of these dog friendly places might not stay dog friendly for long!
• Check Weather Conditions: Avoid outings in extreme heat or cold. Look for shaded areas in summer and ensure your dog stays dry in wet weather.
• Watch for Signs of Stress: If your dog seems uncomfortable, take breaks or consider a quieter alternative. If your dog isn’t used to being in busy places, it might take some time for them to calm down and feel confident. Don’t expect perfect behaviour the first time, take it slow and use lots of positive reinforcement (treats!).

Final Thoughts

Finding the best dog friendly days out requires a mix of research and exploration. With the right planning, you and your furry friend can enjoy exciting, stress-free adventures. Whether it’s a scenic nature walk, a pet-friendly café, or a weekend getaway, there are endless opportunities to create lasting memories together.

By using online resources, reading reviews, and checking policies in advance, you can confidently discover new places that welcome both you and your dog. So, grab the lead, pack some treats, and start exploring! Please get in touch with any great recommendations of dog friendly days out you have tried, I would love to try them too!

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